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Some Of The Most Common Oral Health Problems

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

Some Of The Most Common Oral Health Problems

If any area in your mouth feels uncomfortable, painful, sensitive, or unusual, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Maintaining your oral health is essential for ensuring the longevity of your teeth and gums, and your overall well-being.

Treat Problems Early

While some oral health conditions may seem minor, it’s important that all issues be evaluated by a dentist as soon as they are discovered. When diagnosed early, many problems can be relatively easy to treat. The longer an issue is overlooked, the more likely it will develop into something more severe and complicated.

Following is a list of several common oral health conditions. If you are experiencing any of these issues, make sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Chipped Tooth. Even though your chipped tooth might not hurt, it’s important to have it evaluated. A chip can cause irritation, and it can look unsightly if it’s on a front tooth. Additionally, a chip can weaken a tooth, making it more susceptible to further damage.

Broken Filling. If a small piece of a filling falls out, you might wonder if it’s worthwhile to have the filling replaced, especially if the broken filling is not causing any discomfort or pain. It’s important to have a broken filling repaired to prevent bacteria from entering the exposed portion of the tooth – which can result in decay or an infection.

Bad Breath. Besides causing other people to avoid being close to you, bad breath can be a symptom of a serious oral health condition. While bad breath can be concealed by gum, mints, and mouthwash, it’s important to uncover the underlying problem.

Bleeding Gums. If your gums are red, sore, painful, and bleed when you brush and floss, you might have periodontal (gum) disease. It’s important to catch gum disease early so that it can be treated and halted. Untreated gum disease can lead to periodontitis – which when severe can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Bump or Sore. A bump or a sore in your mouth that persists for more than a couple of days should be evaluated by a dentist. While uncommon, a bump or sore can indicate the presence of oral cancer. Catching oral cancer early is important.

Sensitive Teeth. Sensitive teeth can affect your ability to enjoy certain foods and beverages, and can even discourage you from going outdoors on a cold day. There’s no reason to live with ultra-sensitive teeth if there is a quick and easy treatment that can alleviate your discomfort.

Crooked or Crowded Teeth. Many people do not realize that crooked and crowded teeth can lead to the development of several oral health problems. Crooked teeth can be difficult to keep clean, can lead to improper chewing, and can cause headaches and jaw pain. There are several orthodontic options for straightening teeth – including ClearCorect© invisible braces for adults.

If you are suffering from a common oral health problem, schedule an appointment with Brookview Dental for an evaluation. All conditions should be taken seriously, no matter how minor they might seem. We are committed to making sure you enjoy a lifetime of excellent oral health!

What Happens During A Regular Dental Visit?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

What Happens During A Regular Dental Visit?

Has it been a while since your last regular dental visit? If it’s been a few years, you might not remember what typically happens during a preventative appointment. But don’t worry. A regular dental exam is nothing to fear. We don’t want you to avoid scheduling an appointment just because you haven’t seen a dentist in a while. We are here for you, and we’ll make sure you are relaxed and comfortable during your visit.

At Brookview Dental, a regular dental visit includes a professional cleaning and polishing, x-rays, a comprehensive exam, and a conversation with one of our dentists about the status of your oral health. If problems are detected during your exam, we will talk with you about treatment options. The entire appointment lasts about an hour, and you’ll leave the office with healthier teeth, a treatment plan (if necessary), and a date/time for your next appointment.

Here’s how a regular dental visit typically goes at Brookview Dental:

Arrival at the Office. After you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a member of our front office staff who will welcome you to your appointment. You’ll be asked to complete or update paperwork if we do not already have current information on file.

Being Brought to Your Exam Room. After completing required paperwork, you’ll be brought to one of our exam rooms. On your way there, we’re happy to show you around the office so you can see how it’s organized.

Cleaning, Polishing, and X-Rays. In the exam room, your hygienist will spend a bit of time talking to you and getting to know you. You’ll be asked about your dental history and about any dental problems you are currently experiencing. Please make sure to tell your hygienist about any fears or apprehensions you may have. We do everything possible to make sure you are at ease. Your hygienist will take x-rays if they are necessary or if we do not have any in your file. You’ll also receive a professional teeth cleaning and polishing.

Seeing the Dentist. After your cleaning, polishing, and x-rays, you will meet your dentist. Rest assured that all the dentists at Brookview Dental are warm, friendly, and gentle. Your dentist will review your dental history, examine your mouth, and perform a comprehensive clinical exam. You will be checked for tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other potential problems. You can expect that your dentist will ask questions to learn as much as possible about the status of your dental health, as well as your goals for your teeth, gums, and overall smile.

Scheduling your next appointment. If treatment is recommended for a dental problem that was discovered during your exam, you will be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment. If no problems were found, you will have the opportunity to schedule your next regular exam, which is typically six months later.

Everybody’s teeth, gums, and mouth are unique. Therefore, the frequency of preventative dental visits can vary from one person to another. We look forward to meeting you and helping you feel good about visiting the dentist. Please call Brookview Dental today to schedule a regular dental exam. Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is important to your oral and your overall health.

How To Tell If You Grind Your Teeth At Night

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

How To Tell If You Grind Your Teeth At Night

Do you wake up in the morning with a headache and can’t figure out why you’re in pain? Does your face or jaw feel sore for no particular reason? If so, you may be grinding your teeth at night.

Teeth grinding, which is also commonly called bruxism, should not be ignored. Grinding while you sleep might not seem harmful, but it can lead to irreversible damage to your teeth.

Have a Bruxism Evaluation

If you’re unaware that you grind your teeth at night, you might be surprised to learn that you are a grinder from your dentist. A dentist can usually spot the signs of grinding during a regular dental examination. Signs can include chips or excessive wear on your teeth.

There are several other tell-tale signs of teeth grinding. The following are indications that you should be evaluated for bruxism:

Headaches that seem to occur regularly and are not the result of an illness or injury
Facial pain and a sore jaw are a regular occurrence
Ear pain and/or ringing when you are otherwise healthy and without an ear infection
Teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold liquids and food
Teeth that hurt when you breathe excessively cold air through your mouth
Chips and/or breaks in your teeth and/or in fillings that occur regularly and without any other explanation
Jaw locks or clicks when you chew or open your mouth wide
Permanent teeth that seem loose
Teeth that are wearing down excessively
Inside of the cheeks and sides of the tongue are sore or damaged

It’s entirely possible to live many years without realizing that you grind your teeth. Many people learn of their grinding habit through a partner, roommate, or family member. Teeth grinding usually makes a unique noise that others can hear if they are awake while you are sleeping.

Stop the Grinding!

Many dentists attribute teeth grinding to stress and anxiety. Even though you might be able to reduce your stress level through relaxation techniques, it can be difficult to stop yourself from grinding when you are asleep.

Other common causes of grinding are a misaligned bite, crooked teeth, or missing teeth. If you have misaligned, crooked, or missing teeth, there are solutions that can help. Make sure to ask about your options the next time you’re at the dentist.

A Mouthguard Can Stop Grinding

Eliminating nighttime teeth grinding without some sort of dental intervention is easier said than done. One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent nighttime teeth grinding is to wear a custom-made mouthguard while you sleep. Different types of guards are designed to help keep you from grinding and clenching. Nighttime mouthguards are comfortable, and sometimes they can even help you breathe better while you’re sleeping.

If you are suffering from any of the abovementioned symptoms of teeth grinding, it’s important to take steps to eliminate your grinding habit. Something as simple as a mouthguard may be able to prevent serious dental conditions that are completely avoidable.

Benefits Of Dental Sealants For Children

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

Benefits Of Dental Sealants For Children

Wouldn’t it be fantastic if there was a way to add a layer of protection to reduce your child’s risk of developing tooth decay? Guess what… there is! Dental sealants, which are easy and painless to apply to a child’s permanent molars, are extremely effective in helping avert cavities.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a protective barrier applied to the teeth. While in place, they help prevent food particles, bacteria, and harmful acids from causing tooth decay. Sealants are not meant to replace regular brushing, flossing, and preventative dental appointments. They simply provide an extra layer of defense for your child’s molars. Over time, dental sealants wear away and must be replaced by new dental sealants. If the teeth remain healthy, dental sealants can be used throughout a person’s entire life.

How are Dental Sealants Applied?

The process of applying dental sealants is quick, easy, and done during your child’s regular dental appointment. Because it requires a few extra minutes, be sure to mention that you want dental sealants applied to your child’s teeth when you call to schedule the appointment.

After cleaning and examining your child’s teeth, your dentist will decide if the teeth are healthy enough for sealants. If they are, the teeth are prepared for the sealant material. The material is then brushed on the teeth with something that looks like a small paintbrush. A special light helps the material harden for a strong seal. And… that’s it!

Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children

The advantages of dental sealants are numerous. First and foremost, dental sealants can prevent tooth decay. Other benefits include the following:

Sealants are optimal for young children. As soon as your child’s permanent molars erupt, dental sealants can be applied. Young children are notorious for not brushing and flossing very well. Dental sealants add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay in molars that your child might not be brushing effectively.

Dental sealants are safe. Most children have absolutely no adverse reaction to dental sealants. Nevertheless, it’s important to address any of your concerns with your child’s dentist before sealants are applied.

Many adults benefit from sealants. When permanent molars erupt, sealants provide protection in children. In many cases, sealants can also be applied to healthy adult teeth. Make sure to ask your dentist for more information on dental sealants for adults.

Dental sealants can last several years. Over the course of time, dental sealants wear away and must be replaced by new sealants. The length of time that sealants remain intact depends on several factors. In many cases, sealants can last several years. Your child’s dentist will check the sealants at every preventative appointment and will let you know when it’s time to replace them.

Dental insurance might cover the cost of sealants. Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental sealants. If you have dental insurance, call to find out if dental sealants are part of your coverage. If you do not have dental insurance, consider the cost of sealants vs. the cost of filling a cavity. Dental sealants are a worthwhile preventative measure to protect your child’s teeth!

If you have any questions about dental sealants for children or adults, please contact Brookview Dental. We are happy to talk with you about the many reasons you should consider dental sealants as a way to help keep teeth healthy.

How Fluoride Treatments Can Benefit Kids & Adults

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

How Fluoride Treatments Can Benefit Kids & Adults

If you think a fluoride treatment at the dentist’s office is just for kids… think again! Fluoride can help protect and strengthen teeth no matter your age. Fluoride, which is a natural mineral, helps fortify your teeth and makes them less susceptible to sensitivity and decay.

Dentists typically offer a fluoride treatment to children and teens during regular dental visits because it helps keep developing teeth strong and resistant to cavities. But adults who are at an increased risk of developing tooth decay or who are suffering from specific dental health issues can benefit significantly from a periodic fluoride treatment.

Here are a few reasons kids and adults should consider regular fluoride treatments:

Certain food products contain fluoride, but it might not be enough to strengthen your teeth to their fullest potential. Keep in mind that you might not regularly eat the type of food that contains ample fluoride. Additionally, naturally occurring levels of fluoride are not as concentrated as a fluoride treatment available at the dentist’s office.

Public water supplies are often fortified with fluoride. Many local water systems add fluoride to promote healthy and strong teeth among the general public. If you or your children do not typically drink tap water, you might not reap the benefits of fluoride in your drinking water. Bottled water may or may not contain a beneficial amount of added fluoride.

Brushing and flossing without other preventative measures does not completely protect your teeth. While it’s absolutely true that brushing and flossing at least twice a day is incredibly important to maintaining your oral health, visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and getting enough fluoride are vital to the strength and health of your teeth.

Anyone who has a receding gum line or who has a dental crown or a filling can benefit from a topical fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps protect exposed roots. It also helps keep your teeth strong so they are less susceptible to further damage or decay.

Are you wearing braces? Anyone wearing braces can benefit from a fluoride treatment. It is challenging to brush and floss effectively when your teeth have metal brackets and wires attached to them. The periodic application of fluoride can protect your teeth and keep them stronger during your orthodontic treatment.

Because fluoride helps remineralize and increase the layer of enamel on your teeth, it makes your teeth less sensitive to hot and cold food, beverages, and outside air.

A topical fluoride treatment administered during a dental appointment is quick and easy. The application of fluoride takes just a few minutes and there is little or no discomfort. Many dental insurance companies cover the cost of fluoride for children under the age of 18.

If you are an adult and you’re interested in learning more about fluoride and its benefits, make sure to talk with us at your next appointment. The cost of an adult fluoride treatment is minimal compared to the cost of a filling or another avoidable dental issue.

Here's How To Tell If You Need Braces

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 16:40:18 GMT

Here's How To Tell If You Need Braces

Have you ever heard the phrase, “The shortest distance between two people is a smile?” It means that a smile is universal, shows kindness, and can effortlessly make people feel comfortable.

Knowing the power of a smile, most people want theirs to look bright, healthy, and beautiful. One way to accomplish a fantastic-looking smile is through braces. If you want to enhance the appearance of your smile and improve your oral health, braces might be the solution.

Braces are a type of orthodontic device used to straighten teeth and improve your bite. There are several different types of braces that can be used to place pressure on your teeth, so they gradually move into an optimal position.

Most people can look in the mirror and see minor or significant flaws in the alignment of their teeth. But crooked teeth are not the only reason that people need braces. Other oral health conditions can be addressed with orthodontic treatment.

Here’s how to tell if you might need braces:

Crooked Teeth. If your teeth are not perfectly straight, braces can be used to perfectly align them. Straight teeth are aesthetically pleasing and can help improve your self-esteem.

Wide Spaces in Between Teeth. Excess space in between your teeth can not only look irregular, but can also cause problems with chewing as well as with keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Gaps and spaces in between your teeth can be corrected with braces.

A Missing Tooth. No matter the reason for your missing tooth, braces can be used to stabilize the rest of your teeth. Braces can be used to hold a space for a permanent tooth that has not yet erupted or a space for a future prosthetic tooth (such as a dental implant).

Underbite or Overbite. When your teeth do not close properly, you might have jaw pain, headaches, or trouble with chewing. Additionally, an underbite or overbite can affect the look of your smile and even the shape of your face. Underbites and overbites can be addressed with orthodontic treatment.

Jaw Problems. Jaw problems can be painful, and they can lead to agonizing headaches. Proper alignment of your jaw, which can be achieved with braces, can help alleviate these issues.

Issues Chewing Food. When teeth are misaligned, too crowded, or too far apart, certain types of food can be difficult to chew. Additionally, food can get caught in between teeth that are misaligned or too crowded, which can lead to the development of tooth decay or gum disease.

Speech Problems. Many people with misaligned teeth suffer from difficulty pronouncing certain letters or words. Speech difficulty can negatively affect a person’s personal and professional life.

The need for orthodontic treatment is very common. Most people are not born with perfectly aligned teeth. While certain orthodontic issues are due to genetics, other problems can develop because of a thumb/finger sucking habit that started at a young age or because of an unavoidable problem such as an injury.

If you think you might need braces, schedule an appointment at Brookview Dental for an evaluation. We are happy to answer as many questions as possible over the phone, but an in-person consultation will help you better understand the many benefits of braces. We offer a range of orthodontic options, including invisible braces, that will help you achieve straight teeth and a beautiful, healthy smile.